I think that your insight, while simple, is profound. Yes, I think it's the mind state, to a large degree. With that insight, what does a teacher have to do? S

I think that your insight, while simple, is profound. Yes, I think it's the mind state, to a large degree. With that insight, what does a teacher have to do? She has to find a way to change their minds. She has to make it feel interesting also to them, and most of all inspire them. She has to be a leader for that class, in an exploration of the world. Anytime a student asks why (anytime! In any context) that's an opportunity to take that student, and her question, seriously. Have a discussion on why, the reasons, perhaps the history of the subject matter. Create a special environment. Let the student's know that even if the rest of the school is boring, with teachers that just don't understand or seem grey and dull, this is not that, it's different. Spark curiosity. Don't argue with those who say they're not interested, cater to those who are, and make it easy to join in. But most of all, take the children seriously, create a culture of trust in the class, and read the six lesson school teacher by John Gatto: http://www.cantrip.org/gatto.html http://www.cantrip.org/gatto.html